Society

03 March, 2026 / 14:15

/ 5 hours ago

Over 95% of newborns in Moldova tested free of charge for hearing loss detection

Over 95% of newborns in the Republic of Moldova have been tested free of charge for hearing loss detection under the national universal audiological screening program, implemented since 2024. About 24,000 babies have been examined, and 21 children with hearing problems were identified in time and included in rehabilitation programs. The data are presented in the context of World Hearing Day.

According to the Ministry of Health, the national screening coverage rate has reached 95.3%, which enables early intervention and significantly increases children’s chances for normal speech and language development.

In the Republic of Moldova, the incidence of ear and mastoid process diseases in 2024 was 75.5 cases per 10,000 inhabitants, compared to 71.8 cases in 2023. Among children aged 0 to 17 years, 134.2 cases per 10,000 inhabitants were recorded in the period 2023–2024.

Globally, over 1.5 billion people live with some degree of hearing loss, and 430 million suffer from disabling forms. Specialists estimate that this number could exceed 700 million by 2050. Approximately 90 million children and adolescents are affected, and over 60% of cases can be prevented through simple public health measures.

Doctors warn that untreated hearing loss can affect speech development, school performance, social integration, and a child’s professional prospects. Signs that may indicate a hearing problem include delayed speech, difficulty understanding messages, turning up the television volume, or frequent episodes of ear pain and infections.

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